asked the Minister for Defence what regulations govern the use of departmental helicopters near civil airports; if radio contact is required before runways are flown over at low altitudes; and if he is satisfied that all helicopters, wherever stationed, are being flown in a manner which complies with these regulations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Operation of Helicopters.
101.
The operation of aircraft on and in the vicinity of civil airports is governed by the Air Navigation (Rules of the Air) Order, 1963 (S.I. No. 7 of 1963), made by the Minister for Transport and Power.
While the order mentioned does not apply to State aircraft, all Air Corps aircraft, including helicopters, are operated in accordance with the requirements of the order. They are all equipped with radio and comply with the stipulations regarding radio communication including the obtaining of prior authorisation for all manoeuvres in the vicinity of civil airports.